Declarations

Gubernatorial declarations are special commemorative documents issued by Governor Herbert to recognize a particular issue, cause, or initiative. Declarations are commonly used to increase public awareness or pay tribute to efforts in a wide range of areas, including but not limited to public health and safety, education, arts and culture, professions or occupations, important industries, state government initiatives, the state’s history and legacy, and significant contributions to the State of Utah and its residents.

Because all Utah residents are called upon to recognize and observe each declaration, declarations ought to be Utah focused, broad in application, and relevant to our state and its residents. Requests to honor specific organizations, individuals, or events will typically not be considered, unless they meet additional selection criteria.

Legal Considerations

Declarations are strictly honorary and are not legally binding. The Office of the Governor reserves the right to edit the proposed text. The approval process is not automatic, so do not make announcements regarding the declaration until you have been notified by the Correspondence Coordinator that your request has been approved. The approval or denial of a declaration request does not indicate or imply Governor Herbert’s endorsement or disapprobation of any given issue, organization, cause, or initiative.

Commercial/Media Use

Declarations may not be used as part of an advertisement or commercial promotion. The use of a declaration in any publication or form of media, including news releases and websites, is strictly forbidden without the written approval of the Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff Communication Director.

Submission Requirements and Guidelines

All declaration requests must be submitted online on the Governor’s website, utah.gov/governor/declarations, using the application form link.

The application must be submitted at least six weeks in advance of the date needed.

The application must be sponsored either by a Utah resident, a Utah-based organization, or a Utah affiliate or member of a national organization.

Approval Process

Once a declaration request is received by the Office of the Governor, it will be reviewed by the Governor’s Declaration Committee. At Governor Herbert’s request, the committee will decide at its sole discretion, case-by-case, whether or not a declaration application is approved. The approval or denial of a declaration request does not indicate or imply Governor Herbert’s endorsement or disapprobation of any given issue, organization, cause, or initiative.

Request for More Information

Questions may be directed to the Correspondence Coordinator at kadair@utah.gov or (801) 538-1514.